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How To Keep Your Allergies In Check This Spring

April 27, 2014 8:00 AM

Photo Credit PHILIPPE HUGUEN/AFP/Getty Images

Spring is here and that means all the different allergens are in full bloom. From pollen to dust to mold and everything else that triggers your sniffles, there are myriad reactions to each and every allergen. If you’re an allergy sufferer, you’ve probably already started stocking up on some over-the-country remedies and medication, which can often be very helpful, however there are also lots of other things you can do to prevent an allergy attack before it hits. Here are a few suggestions of ways you can treat allergy season at home, without medication.

Keep Doors and Windows Closed

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Sure, the spring breeze feels wonderful, especially after you’ve been trapped inside all winter long. However, that breeze is also carrying a lot of pollen and dander right into your home. Keep windows and doors closed to prevent those allergens from getting inside. You’ll miss out on some of those spring breezes, but when you prevent the sniffles, the sneezes and the watery eyes, you’ll realize that it’s a decent trade off.

Take a Shower

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You spend all day out playing in the sun, only to return home and get in bed. However, you may not realize that you’re covered in allergens. Those are the same allergens that you then proceed to track all over your house and bed, making you congested and miserable in the morning. Take a few minutes to hop in the shower once you return home to wash all those spores and pollens off, making sure to wash your clothes in the process. That way you won’t have those yucky things clinging to you or your fabrics.

Minimize Pet Allergies

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Pet allergies can be some of the most common triggers for many people, and it just gets worse in the spring and summer, when pets start to shed their winter coats. Make sure to wash your hands immediately after you’ve pet your dog. You’ll also want to get that dog washed frequently with a hypoallergenic or oatmeal-based dog shampoo. Make sure to wash the dog bedding and toys weekly as well, as those are often hidden places where dander lies. Of course, keep your pooch off your bed and furniture at all times, and try using a HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) filter to remove dander in the air.

Protect Yourself

Photo Credit PHILIPPE HUGUEN/AFP/Getty Images

You certainly don’t want to be a prisoner in your own home, and you should feel free to go outside and enjoy the beautiful spring weather. However, it is just as important to protect yourself when you do venture outdoors. If you are planning on doing some yard work, make sure to wear a protective face mask. If you have extremely severe allergies, then try picking up a respirator mask with a HEPA filter.

Watch the News

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There are several apps and news outlets that report on allergy information every day, so keep an eye on those reports. Many apps will let you know just how high the pollen count is, or when it is expected to be windy outside. Those are the best times to remain indoors. You can also use these apps to plan when you’ll do yard work and when you will feel more comfortable playing outdoors with your family.

You certainly don’t need to feel like a prisoner during allergy season, so with a little help and careful planning, you’ll be able to enjoy all the beauty that springtime offers.

Deborah Flomberg is a theater professional, freelance writer and Denver native. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.